L’Espresso @ Goodwood Park Hotel - Afternoon Tea Buffet with English Classics and European Delights

From now until the end of April, L'Espresso at Goodwood Park Hotel presents an Afternoon Tea Buffet featuring English Classics and European Delights. You can indulge in a delectable array of European-themed sweets and savouries alongside traditional English Classics, which include quintessential sandwiches, a live Carving Station, and more. L'Espresso also introduces its latest Scone Bar, offering a delightful selection of freshly baked scones in assorted flavours.

Seafood Croquettes

Prawn Twister

Golden Crispy Battered Fish Fillet

The Hot Delights section is where you will find all the scrumptious fried morsels, such as Golden Crispy Battered Fish Fillet, Seafood Croquettes, and Prawn Twister. Each item is served with its respective pairing sauce — Tartar Sauce & Malt Vinegar for the English touch, Rémoulade for a French flair, and Roasted Garlic Aioli for a taste of Spain.

Spanish-style Chicken Drumettes

Pork Schnitzel

Grilled Bratwurst with Sauerkraut

For some meatier delicacies, there are Spanish-style Chicken Drumettes, Swiss-style Pork Schnitzel with Cheese, and Grilled Bratwurst with Sauerkraut. The Pork Schnitzel, reminiscent of the one I enjoyed in Vienna, was a delightful surprise. It was well executed - perfectly flat as it should be, with a tender texture that made each bite pleasurable.

Sourdough Pizza Margherita

Not forgetting the Italian touch, you can savour the Sourdough Pizza Margherita, where the simplicity of the ingredients accentuates the sourdough crust's airy texture.

Beef Bourguignon

One of the standout offerings was this French Beef Bourguignon. It was hearty and flavoursome, featuring tender beef cubes alongside chunks of moreish courgettes and soft, sweet carrots.

Croffle Herb-roasted NZ Beef Tenderloin

The Chef Action Station is also a key highlight of this buffet, offering freshly made Croffle topped with Herb-roasted NZ Beef Tenderloin. While the tenderloin was commendable, some inconsistencies were noted. My first plate was delighting with thin slices of beef tenderloin, yet the second serving was disappointing with an overdone tenderloin and a thicker cut.

Prawn Cocktail with Fresh Mango

Under the Sandwiches section, selections include Finger Sandwiches, Open-Faced Sandwiches and Croissant Sandwiches. Similar to hot delights, you get both a touch of English and European flavours — Prawn Cocktail with Fresh Mango & Lime Zest (English), Ham & Swiss Cheese (Swiss), Bocadillo de Atún (Tuna & Egg) (Spanish) and Basil Pesto Caprese (Italian).

Herb & Garlic Cheese Tartlet with Cranberry Compote, Smoked Salmon Bruschetta with Mascarpone

The Open Sandwiches offers dainty Herb & Garlic Cheese Tartlet with Cranberry Compote and Smoked Salmon Bruschetta with Mascarpone. I like how each small bite was so packed with mouthfeel and flavours.

Salmon Gravlax

Charcuterie

I visited this section the most for the luscious slices of Salmon Gravlax. The chilled section also offers a selection of Charcuterie with Pickles & Mustard.

Plain, Raisin, Coffee, Apricot, Pistachio & Maple Pecan Scone

As mentioned, a brand new Scone Bar has been added to the buffet menu, presenting an assortment of scones with new flavours such as Coffee, Apricot, Pistachio, and Maple Pecan alongside classics like Plain and Raisin. The Plain remained my top choice, followed by Maple Pecan for the additional nuttiness, which worked well with the wide selection of condiments, which even includes Lemon Curd and Caramel Banana, among others.

Tarta De Manzana

Desserts

I enjoyed the wide variety of desserts from various parts of Europe. The German Donauwellen (Marble Cake) was yummy with tart cherries embedded. The Spanish Tarta De Manzana (Apple Tart) is a must-try, boasting a layer of beautiful custard base topped with apples. Equally satisfying was the Swiss Apricot Cake, which highlighted the flavours of the summer fruit.

Limited-time Chef Specials will be available only twice during Monday to Thursday seatings and once during each seating from Friday to Sunday and Public Holidays. What was served during my visit was Creamy Chicken Pot Pie with Puff Pastry and Peppermint & Strawberry Lollipop.

Afternoon Tea Buffet with English Classics and European Delights
8 March – 30 April 2024
Mon-Thu: 2pm - 5:30pm ($65 per adult/ $39 per child)
Fri-Sun & PH: 12pm - 2:30pm, 3pm - 5:30pm ($68 per adult/ $40.80 per child)

Photograph and written by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food.


L'Espresso
Goodwood Park Hotel
22 Scotts Road
Singapore 228221
Tel: +65 67301746
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Nearest MRT: Orchard (NS Line, TE Line)

Opening Hours:
Mon-Thu: 2pm - 5:30pm 
Fri-Sun & PH: 12pm - 2:30pm, 3pm - 5:30pm (

Direction:
1) Alight at Orchard MRT station. Take Exit 1. Walk down Scotts Road to destination. Journey time about 12 minutes. [Map]

1864 The Bar @ Sofitel Singapore City Centre - Sofitel x Sulwhasoo Ginseng Afternoon Tea

In an exclusive partnership with renowned Korean luxury beauty brand Sulwhasoo, Sofitel Singapore City Centre has recently launched a co-branded afternoon tea experience. Available from 1 March to 26 April, this limited-time afternoon tea set incorporates the essence of the brand's signature ingredient, ginseng, into a repertoire of sweet and savoury delights. What's more, you get to walk away with a set of Sulwhasoo Anti-aging Kit.

Chinese Herbal Tea Quail Egg

We started with Chinese Herbal Tea Quail Egg, which was simply adorable and tasty. I appreciate the addition of olive oil pearls which added a unique flavour and mouthfeel to the egg.

Chilled Ginseng Egg Royale with Shredded Crab Meat was delicious with soft egg custard paired with sweet crab meat.

Chicken Collagen Broth with Coconut Noodles and Goji Berries

Chicken Collagen Broth with Coconut Noodles and Goji Berries was my absolute favourite. Served chilled, it was like a delectable savoury-sweet ginseng shot with a texture bite lent from coconut noodles.

Ginseng Crème Brûlée Sable Cookie

Among the sweets, Ginseng Crème Brûlée Sable Cookie was infused with a pronounced taste of ginseng, which harmonised well with the creme brulee. The sugar bits are reminiscent of ginseng candy. However, the uneven caramelised sugar affected the overall texture and sweetness balance.

Yuzu Ginseng Tart with Swiss Meringue

Caramel Ginger Puff

Adorned with a flower, both Yuzu Ginseng Tart with Swiss Meringue and Caramel Ginger Puff captivated us aesthetically. The Yuzu Ginseng Tart was like an elevated version of a Lemon Tart, offering a tangy blend of yuzu and ginseng, while the latter surprised with an interesting cylindrical puff pastry filled with sweet and eggy custard.

Honey Mascarpone Lemon Cake

Among the sweet pastries, Honey Mascarpone Lemon Cake stood out with its fluffy sponge cake, honey mascarpone layer, and soft chantilly cream. Each layer harmonised with the others, and the sweetness level was just right.

Chilled Hashima Ginseng Soup with Goji Berries

Chilled Hashima Ginseng Soup with Goji Berries added a nourishing and refreshing touch to the Sulwhasoo Ginseng Afternoon Tea experience.

Each Sofitel x Sulwhasoo Afternoon Tea Set also comes with two sets of Sulwhasoo Anti-aging Kits worth $222. Each kit features sample sizes of Sulwhasoo's top products: Concentrated Ginseng Renewing Cream (5ml), First Care Activating Serum (8ml), Concentrated Ginseng Renewing Serum (5ml), and Concentrated Ginseng Renewing Eye Cream (3ml).

Sofitel x Sulwhasoo Ginseng Afternoon Tea Price: $118++ for two persons. High tea hours is 2pm to 5pm daily. Make a reservation via their official website, call 6428 5000 or email HA152@sofitel.com

Photos and words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


1864
Sofitel Singapore City Centre
Fifth Floor
9 Wallich Street
Singapore 078885
Tel: +65 6428 5000
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Nearest MRT: Tanjong Pagar (EW Line)

Opening Hours:
High Tea: 2pm - 5pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Tanjong Pagar MRT station. Take Exit A. Turn right on Peck Seah Street. Walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Lobby Lounge @ Conrad Centennial Singapore - The Return of the Strawberry Afternoon Tea Featuring Amaou Strawberries

As January heralds in the peak season of Amaou Strawberries of Fukuoka, Conrad Centennial Singapore's Lobby Lounge has recently relaunched its exclusive Strawberry Afternoon Tea. Also known as the "King of Japanese Strawberries," delight in Amaou's sweetness from now till 31 March 2024. The specially curated menu features fresh Amaou Strawberries sourced from Fukuoka, farmed under stringent guidelines to preserve their exceptional flavour and deep red hue appearance, and includes exquisitely crafted strawberry-centric delights for a complete Amaou experience.

Start your afternoon tea with Air Flown Japanese Strawberry with Valrhona Chocolate Dip while the chocolate is still warm. The classic pairing of chocolate and strawberries will create a perfect prelude to a relaxing afternoon. The Amaou strawberries, given their exceptional flavour, are just as indulgent on their own.

Whipped Brie

Fresh Strawberry Balsamic Bruschetta

The savoury items were delectable, with a well-considered blending of savoury ingredients and the sweet, fruity, fresh profile of strawberries. My favourite items were the Fresh Strawberry Balsamic Bruschetta and Whipped Brie. The bruschetta was layered with Citrus Cream Cheese, topped with sliced strawberries and seared duck, and sweetened with Cantaloupe Gel. The latter, featuring whipped brie, was topped with Balsamic Strawberry, Fruit Chutney, and Kiwis. The contrasting flavour notes and creamy mouthfeel amped up the lusciousness of the strawberries.

Strawberry, Mango, Scallop Tart

Strawberry, Mango, Scallop Tart was interesting with saltish Pickles and sweet Candied Orange. Again, the juxtaposition of the sweet and savoury notes of the ingredients was delicious, and in addition to that, this dainty pink tart was packed with textural crunch as well. The strawberry tart itself emanated a delightful whiff of strawberry aroma each time I took a bite of the tart.

Salmon Rillettes

Besides strawberries, Salmon Rillettes also highlights the use of Sustainable Caviar - Avruga caviar, distinguished by the Marine Stewardship Council's "Chain of Custody" certification.

Strawberry Meringata

Moving on to the sweets, the Strawberry Meringata was well-received by diners. A balance of creamy, fruity freshness and crunchy elements was put together using decadent double vanilla cream and tangy marinated strawberry spiked with crisped slow-baked Meringue.

Strawberry Shortcake

Strawberry Shortcake is a classic done right with softy and fluffy sponge cakes layered with Fresh Strawberries and Hokkaido Whipping Cream.

Strawberry Mint

Strawberry Mint was gorgeous in a bright red hue - this strawberry treat was filled with Fresh Strawberry Mint Compote encased within a layer of Vanilla Whip.

Tahitian Vanilla Whip

Tahitian Vanilla Whip, Strawberry Compôte is pretty with Strawberry Marmalade, Vanilla Ganache. Its sweetness was a bit too much for me.

Scones

Homemade Strawberry Scone and Raisin Scone didn't disappoint. It wasn't too buttery, with just a hint of sweetness. Hence, the accompanying clotted cream and Homemade Wild Strawberry Jam were the ideal spread for them.

The Strawberry Afternoon Tea is served at Lobby Lounge daily from 8 January 2024 to 31 March 2024 in two seating: from 1 pm to 3 pm and 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm, priced at $50++ per person on weekdays and $52++ per person on weekends, inclusive of a two-hour free flow of tea and coffee, with an option to include 2 hours of unlimited Prosecco at $28++. For more information or to make reservations at Lobby Lounge, please visit the website or call +65 6432 7483 / 7357.

Photos and words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Lobby Lounge
Conrad Centennial Singapore
2 Temasek Blvd
Singapore 038982
Tel: +65 6432 7483 / 7357
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Nearest MRT: Promenade (CC, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
First seating: 1pm to 3pm
Second seating: 3:30pm to 5:30pm

Direction:
1) Alight at Promenade MRT station. Take Exit B. Continue walking along Temasek Avenue to destination Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

Portman's Bar @ PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay - Celebrates Christmas with Yuletide Dreams Afternoon Tea

Embark on a festive journey at Portman's Bar, Parkroyal Collection Marina Bay, with their Yuletide Dreams Afternoon Tea experience. Available until January 4, 2024, this indulgent afternoon tea presents a luxurious spread of seasonal delights. The offering includes freshly baked homemade scones, a curated selection of savoury bites, and an array of delectable sweets that capture the spirit of the Yuletide season.

Begin your indulgent afternoon tea at Portman's Bar with the delightful combination of Homemade Cranberry Scones, served with clotted cream and cranberry jam. Elevating the experience, savour the richness of Baked Brie Cheese with Honey. The presentation adds a touch of drama to the occasion, as a small paper cone is placed atop the cheese and lit in a burst of flames, imparting a subtle smoky flavour to the cheese. This theatrical touch enhances the overall experience, making it a memorable start to a luxurious afternoon tea.

Some of our favourites include the Beetroot Polo Bun, which features sugared beetroot buns and a savoury filling of salmon and cream cheese, creating a harmonious balance of sweet and savoury notes. Another favourite is the Brioche French Toast Cube, generously adorned with creamy mushroom ragout and chicken meat loaf, offering a luxurious and comforting bite. For enthusiasts of sweet potatoes, the Waffle Basket, featuring a blend of Idaho and sweet potatoes drizzled with honey, is a must-try, promising a delectable blend of textures and flavours.

Indulge your sweet tooth with the enchanting dessert options in the afternoon tea set at Portman's Bar. The "Bauble" is a delightful creation, showcasing apple bavarois and cinnamon apple compote, offering a burst of fruity flavours. The "Gift Box" is a chocolate lover's dream, with a decadent combination of chocolate mousse and raspberry compote, all atop a chocolate sable, creating a rich and satisfying treat. Lastly, the "Santa Hat" is a whimsical delight, featuring vanilla mousse adorned with cherry morello, bringing a perfect balance of sweetness and tartness. These intricately crafted desserts add a touch of magic to your afternoon tea experience, making it a truly memorable occasion.

Complementing the delightful spread, the afternoon tea set at Portman's Bar offers free-flow coffee or tea. Embrace the rich and indulgent flavours by opting for a Mocha or a classic Hot Chocolate. For those who prefer a refreshing twist, coffee and tea options are available in iced or hot versions.

Priced at $58++ per person, this experience perfectly celebrates the holidays in style. To enhance your indulgence, complement your afternoon tea with a choice of wines, cocktails, or fresh oysters, available at an additional cost. Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere and savour the season's flavours at Portman's Bar.

For reservations, please call +65 6845 1119 or email portmansbar.prsmb@parkroyalcollection.com.

Photos and words by Crystal. A girl who likes to eat, photograph, and write about food, and dreams about travelling around the world one day. Note: This is an invited tasting.


Portman’s Bar
PARKROYAL COLLECTION Marina Bay
Level 4
6 Raffles Boulevard
Singapore 039594
Tel: +65 68451119
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Nearest MRT: Esplanade (CC Line), Promenade (CC Line, DT Line)

Opening Hours:
Daily: 1030am - 12midnight

Direction:
1) Alight at Esplanade MRT station. Take Exit B. Turn right and walk to destination. Journey time about 3 minutes. [Map]

2) Alight at Promenade MRT station. Take Exit A. Cross the road and walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]